Tenants with PETS! What do I do??

[Tyler Jahnke]

Hey BP!

I have a property on the market for rent that I've been anticipating getting $1,000 a month for. I now have a qualified tenant interested in signing a 2-year lease at $1,050 per month ($50 more per month than I was hoping).

BUT!

He has a dog. I've always been opposed to renting to a tenant with a pet because I fear the worst when it comes to damage the dog could do to the property. I REALLY don't want a property full of old dog urine that stinks up the whole place or whatever other damage the dog could do and end up with a ton of maintenance/repair expenses.

SO...

He's also willing to place an extra pet deposit. But, am I'm I freaking out too much this whole dog thing? Is it worth the extra $50 per month in cash flow? Should I just say NO to better protect my property? THOUGHTS??

Thanks,

Tyler

[Kimberley R.]

I would readily agree to rent to prospective tenants with pets, as pet owners overall often demonstrate a level of responsibility and commitment to caring for their animals that indicates strong character. 

Additionally, pets are considered family to most owners, and people will in most cases refuse to abandon their pets in exchange for housing opportunities. I have personally owned numerous pets throughout my life, and believe as a result of experience that concerns regarding damage are greatly exaggerated. 

Request a non refundable pet fee, charge an additional 25.00 rent, add an addendum to lease that states that they cannot allow their dog to relive themselves on your lawn, and your tenant will most likely greatly appreciate your willingness to extend them a lease agreement and will therefore uphold their responsibilities on behalf of their pet.

I've personally never experienced a problem, and welcome applicants with pets with the aforementioned, or similar, contingencies.